A Prayer for Our Priests

You came from among us
To be, for us, one who serves.
We thank you for ministering christ to us
And helping us minister christ to each other.

We are grateful for the many gifts you bring
To our community:
for drawing us together in worship,
for visiting us in our homes,
for comforting us in sickness,
for showing us compassion,
for blessing our marriage,
for baptising our children,
for confirming us in our calling,
for supporting us in bereavement,
for helping us to grow in faith,
for encouraging us to take the initiative,
for helping the whole community realise
God’s presence among us.

For our part, we pray that we may always be
Attentive to your needs and never take you
For granted. You, like us, need friendship and
Love, welcome and a sense of belonging,
kind words and acts of thoughtfulness.

We pray, also, for the priests who have
Wounded priesthood.
May we be willing to forgive
And may they be open to healing.
Let us support one another during times
Of crisis.

God our father, we ask you to bless our
Priests and confirm them in their calling.
Give them the gifts they need
To respond with generosity and a joyful heart.